Living within your means can be done. You don't want to be a slave to the credit card company, do you? Learn what to do to stay out of credit card debt. This how to video will give you the tips. Credit card debt is a slippery slope.

Step 1: Calculate monthly expensesCalculate your monthly expenses—right down to how much gum you buy—and compare that with the money you have coming in.

Step 2: Scale backIf your expenses exceed your income, see what you can live without. Keep slashing away until you have enough to live on, plus at least $50 a month you can put aside for unforeseen emergencies. *Tip: Don't forget to factor in periodic expenses like birthday gifts, haircuts, and school supplies.

Step 7: CelebrateNow celebrate your freedom from debt—but not so much that you end up back where you started!

*FactThe average American household has $9,000 in credit card debt.

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